Final answer:
The difference between calories and empty calories lies in their nutritional value. Calories are a unit of measurement for energy, while empty calories refer to foods and drinks that provide energy but lack essential nutrients.
Step-by-step explanation:
Calories are a unit of measurement used to quantify the amount of energy provided by food or drink when consumed by a living organism. They are essential for the body to function properly and carry out its daily activities. On the other hand, empty calories refer to foods and beverages that provide energy (calories) but lack significant nutritional value. They are typically high in added sugars, unhealthy fats, and low in essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
For example, soda, candy, and processed snacks are common sources of empty calories. These foods may contribute to weight gain and poor overall health if consumed in excess, as they provide little to no nutritional benefit.
The key difference between calories and empty calories is that while calories are necessary for the body to function and are found in all types of food, empty calories provide energy without offering significant nutritional value.
Learn more about Difference between calories and empty calories